---

After many park days—sunshine, rainstorms and even snow! I’ve learned exactly what’s worth carrying and what just weighs you down. Whether you’re heading to Walt Disney World, Disneyland Paris, or Universal Orlando, being prepared can make a huge difference to your day.

So here’s a peek inside my trusty park bag and what I recommend for a smooth, stress-free, and magical day, no matter which park you’re visiting!

First Things First: The Bag Itself

You’ll want something comfortable, lightweight, and big enough to carry the essentials. I usually go for a Loungefly backpack or a crossbody with compartments.

• Disneyland Paris: A backpack is great for layering up and down (especially in colder months).
• Walt Disney World: Prioritise comfort, heat + long days = sweaty backs! Look for breathable straps.
• Universal Orlando: Lockers are required for some rides, so make sure your bag isn’t too bulky.

My Must-Have Park Bag Essentials

These are my day-one, don’t-leave-the-hotel-without-these items:

• Refillable Water Bottle – Free refills available at water fountains and quick-service spots. Hydration is key!
  • I also like to bring a small bottle of squash or water flavouring drops to make the taste a bit more fun for the kids (and me!).
• Sunscreen – Year-round in Florida, and yes, even for sunny days in Paris.
• Mini First Aid Kit – Think plasters (blister ones especially), pain relief, antihistamines, and a few kids’ essentials.
• Rehydration Sachets – I’ve used these plenty of times when I’ve felt a bit ropey from the heat or just plain worn out. Pop one into your water bottle and it can really help give you a boost.
• Poncho or Compact Umbrella – Florida rainstorms or a surprise Paris drizzle, you’ll thank me!
• Portable Fan or Cooling Towel – A lifesaver in Orlando and Paris! Don’t let the European location fool you, summer days at Disneyland Paris can be just as sweltering.
• Snacks – For queuing, waiting, or emergency hangry moments. I bring cereal bars, pretzels, mini cookies or crisps.
• Phone & Portable Charger – You’ll be using the park app constantly. I never go without a power bank.
• Hand Sanitiser & Wipes – A must with little ones (and ice cream mishaps).
• Tissues – always be prepared!
• Spare Socks – If you’ve ever walked around in soggy socks after a downpour or a splash ride, you’ll understand why this is a must!
• Autograph Book & Pen – Especially for Disney trips, character meets are magical!
• Makeup, Deodorant, Hair Brush & Lip Balm – Now this might just be me, but sometimes I like to freshen up a bit, especially if we’ve got a sit down meal planned or I know I’ll be snapping selfies with Mickey!

If You’re Visiting with Kids

• Change of Clothes – For little ones or water ride fans!
• Comfort Toy or Dummy – Helps with queues, overstimulation, or downtime.
• Small Distractions – Think bubbles, sticker books, or mini toys while waiting in lines.
• Fold-Up Blanket or Coat – For Paris in colder months or late-night fireworks.

Top Tip: Bring a wet bag or zip pouch to stash wet ponchos, dirty clothes, or even left over snacks!

What I Leave at the Hotel

It’s tempting to bring everything, but your shoulders will thank you for packing light:

• Snacks That Melt or Spoil in the Heat – Chocolate bars and yogurt pouches seem like a good idea… until they’ve turned into a warm, sticky mess. Stick to non-melty, heat-proof options like cereal bars, crackers, or dried fruit.
• Big Cameras – Unless you’re a photography buff, your phone does the job.
• Guidebooks or Paper Maps – All three parks have apps with wait times, maps, and mobile food ordering.
• Selfie Sticks – These aren’t allowed in Disney or Universal parks, and security will confiscate them if they spot one.
• Other Restricted Items – Things like glass containers, loose ice, or oversized tripods are also on the no-no list. It’s always a good idea to double-check the official list of prohibited items before you head to the parks to avoid any delays at security.

Don’t Forget: Universal’s Locker System

If you’re visiting Universal Orlando, knowing how the locker system works can save you a lot of hassle—especially if you plan to go on thrill rides like VelociCoaster, The Mummy, or Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.

There are two types of lockers you’ll encounter:

1. Paid Larger Lockers (Daily Rate)
   • At the front of each Universal theme park, you’ll find lockers available to rent for the entire day, which you can open as many times as you like.
   • There are two sizes:
     • Large lockers: 12 in. x 13 in. x 16.9 in., starting at $15 per day.
     • Family size lockers: 12 in. x 16.25 in. x 16.9 in., starting at $20 per day.
   • Universal Studios Florida: Three sets of daily rate lockers are located in the Production Central area—after entering through the turnstiles, head far left or far right.
   • Islands of Adventure: One set of daily rental lockers is inside the turnstiles, to the far left near the stroller and wheelchair rental station.
   • Epic Universe: All daily lockers are within Celestial Park. The main locker area is near the front of the park, left of Chronos. Additional lockers are available at concierge kiosks throughout the park, including near SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic.
   • These lockers are perfect if you want to store bigger bags or multiple items and avoid carrying everything all day.
2. Small Free Lockers at Ride Entrances
   • At the entrances to rides like VelociCoaster, The Mummy, and Hagrid’s, you’ll find small lockers free to use—but only while you’re on the ride.
   • These lockers are much smaller and meant for quick stashing of valuables and small items before passing through the metal detector. (VelociCoaster, The Incredible Hulk & Stardust Racers)
   • At other attractions with lockers—such as Revenge of the Mummy, Men in Black Alien Attack, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, and Hiccup’s Wing Gliders—there is a bit more leeway:
     • These rides do not have metal detectors, but all loose items must be secured in the lockers provided.
     • Wearing a bum bag is permitted only if it does not interfere with the ride’s safety restraints, and this is at the discretion of ride team members.

Top Tip: When in doubt, ask a team member—they’re usually happy to help you figure out if your bag is okay for the ride.

If you’re planning a Disney or Universal trip, drop me a message — I’d love to help you create your dream holiday, stress-free!

Here’s to happy packing and even happier adventures!